Former fighter, respected trainer Shawn Tompkins passes away at 37

The Mixed Martial Arts community was left stunned Sunday night when word surfaced that Shawn Tompkins had unexpectedly died at age 37. Tompkins fought professionally a decade ago but was best known for his work as a coach in the IFL and with athletes like Chris Horodecki, Mark Hominick, and Sam Stout.

News of his death was reported by MMAJunkie where it was revealed Horodecki had spoken with him as recently as yesterday. No cause was given though it was said he apparently didn’t wake up Sunday morning implying medical reasons were at the root of his passing.

Close acquaintance Bas Rutten commented on the sad scenario through Twitter where he wrote, “This is a really sad day. Shawn Tompkins was one of my best friends. He passed way too early leaving his beautiful wife Emile, family and friends behind. He’s gonna be missed. He texted me yesterday evening telling me he loved me, so, thank God, I called him to tell him it was mutual. Godspeed my friend, I’m gonna miss you a lot!”

Tompkins was also Stout’s brother-in-law where he and “Hands of Stone” not only worked together in the gym but also as part of a group looking to combat bullying.

We at Five Ounces of Pain would like to send our sincere condolences to the friends and family of a man not only viewed as a great trainer but also an outstanding person in general.